Derreck Johnson, owner of The Home of Chicken and Waffles in Oakland, California said many citizens’ and business owners’ livelihoods are on the line as crime continues to skyrocket.
The outside of Johnson's restaurant, the Home of Chicken and Waffles, in the Jack London Square area in Oakland. "Small businesses are the heartbeat of Oakland, small businesses are the largest employer in Oakland, and it's very important that the city, the state, the county, everyone recognizes how important small business is," he added.
"I've had to subsidize the last two payrolls because sales have been so slow," Johnson said."People just don't feel comfortable."and the closure of beloved spots around town prompted him to join the strike to get the city's attention. He said the area of his restaurant is a popular spot for tourists, and as a result, his patrons are often surprised when their luggage is stolen from their cars, or they are robbed at gunpoint on the street.
Johnson said the closing of local businesses impacts the economy, but also the social fabric of the community. He explained that he, along with Everett & Jones BBQ, which sits across the street and has been in business for 50 years, adds up to 70 years of business and would result in 75 employees losing their jobs if they had to close their doors.
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